Formally Recognized:
2004/04/05

Other Name(s)

Links and documents

Construction Date(s)

1927/01/01

Listed on the Canadian Register:
2004/10/25

Statement of Significance

Description of Historic Place

The Keir Memorial Museum is housed in the former Keir Memorial Presbyterian Church (1925-1983). The 68' by 27' building, constructed in 1927 has plain Victorian elements and is placed in the pastoral village landscape of Malpeque, PEI. The site is punctuated by background trees and an attractive Island stone fence in the foreground of the structure.

Heritage Value

The Keir Memorial Museum is significant for its connection to the history of the Presbyterian Church in PEI. Presbyterianism had been established in the Malpeque area by pioneer settlers in 1810. This building was erected in 1927 by those adherents who did not choose to join in the formation of the United Church of Canada in 1925. Some former church artifacts, such as the communion table were presented by notables such as Lucy Maud Montgomery (famous author and wife of Rev. Ewan MacDonald). The current museum displays many artifacts from the history of the Malpeque area.

Source: PEI Heritage Advisory Committee Files

Character-Defining Elements

The character defining elements of the structure include:
- the unpainted interior of British Columbia fir
- the front elevation with central archway door rising to a bell tower conical spire topped by a ball
- the wood clapboard exterior
- the faux support arches on the side elevations interspersed by sets of 3 windows
- the Island sandstone wall at the entrance to the grounds

Recognition

Jurisdiction

Prince Edward Island

Recognition Authority

Province of Prince Edward Island

Recognition Statute

Heritage Places Protection Act

Recognition Type

Registered Historic Place

Recognition Date

2004/04/05

Historical Information

Significant Date(s)

n/a

Theme - Category and Type

Building Social and Community Life

Religious Institutions

Function - Category and Type

Current

Leisure

Museum

Historic

Religion, Ritual and Funeral

Religious Facility or Place of Worship

Architect / Designer

n/a

Builder

James McKeen (New Glasgow, NS)

Additional Information

Location of Supporting Documentation

Located in the Culture and Heritage Division, Department of Communtiy and Cultural Affairs, Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8
File #: 4310-20/K3